Emile Saad
Osage Nation
Dissertation Fellow · Oregon Health & Science University
Cobell Scholar
Elouise Cobell Dissertation Writing-Year Fellowship
Where good ideas become lasting contributions.
This is your chance to focus on finishing the work that will define what comes next.
Now Open
2026 Cycle
Due 01/10/2026
About This Fellowship
The dissertation phase is where everything comes together, but it's also where funding runs thin and momentum stalls. Named for Elouise Cobell herself, this fellowship provides up to $30,000 so you can focus entirely on writing and defending your work without the financial pressure that pulls so many doctoral students off course. Your dissertation matters. This fellowship treats it that way.
Eligibility
- Enrolled member of a U.S. Federally-recognized American Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Corporation
- Full-time student during the period of the award
- Completed all requirements for doctoral degree except writing and defense
- Pursuing a first doctoral degree in any field (professional doctorates like Psy.D., M.D., J.D. do not qualify)
When to Apply
Annual Cycle
Chair recommendations due January 17. No exceptions.
- Opens
- September 1
- Deadline
- January 10
Key Facts
- Award Amount
- Up to $30,000
- Tax Support
- Additional funds included
- Disbursement
- 12 monthly payments
- Duration
- June 2026 – May 2027
- Degree Level
- Doctoral (ABD)
Applications are submitted entirely online through the OASIS portal. The fellowship cycle runs June 2026 through May 2027.
Apply
The path forward starts here
Seven steps between you and your fellowship. We'll walk you through every one.
Log In to OASIS
Log In to OASIS
Create / Update your Profile
Complete the Eligibility Form / Get Matched
Complete the Eligibility Form / Get Matched
Apply to Your Matches
Accept Your Offer
Accept Your Offer
You Said Yes. Now What?
Track Your Award
Track Your Award
Ready to apply?
FAQ
FAQ: Questions we hear most
From eligibility details to award logistics, here's what fellowship applicants ask us.
Are there additional requirements if I'm awarded the fellowship?
Yes. Fellows must set up direct deposit for award distribution, attend the four-day Cobell Fellowship Symposium (held in July in Albuquerque, NM, paid for by Cobell separately from your award), and intend to enroll full-time and complete the dissertation within 9–12 months, no later than June of the fellowship year.
When does the application open?
The application is available September 1 through January 10 at 11:59pm MST, without exception. All recommendations by dissertation chairs are due January 17 by 11:59pm MST, without exception. Give your chair a heads-up early.
How much is the award?
Up to $30,000 per fellow per award term, plus additional money to help offset federal and state taxes.
How is the award distributed?
The fellowship is disbursed directly to the Fellow in 12 equal monthly payments. The fellowship cycle is June through an anticipated graduation of May of the following year or earlier.
What is considered full-time status?
Full-time status at Cobell is always established in partnership with your university and your program. There isn't a one-size-fits-all credit-hour requirement.
Do professional doctorates qualify?
No. Professional doctorates (Psy.D., M.D., D.O., O.D., J.D., etc.) do not qualify. However, combination academic doctorates like Ph.D. with M.D. or Ph.D. with J.D. will be considered on a case-by-case basis upon review of a completed application.
Can I use AI tools in my application?
AI tools like ChatGPT are fine for brainstorming, outlining, or proofreading, but the final responses must be your own work. Reviewers want to hear your authentic voice and perspective. The quality of the writing matters less than the personal story you share. You'll tell your own story better than AI can.
Alumni Spotlight
They finished what they started
Meet Cobell Dissertation Fellows who defended their work — and are now defending their communities.
